Graduation is a day students look forward to for it is a culmination of all one’s efforts after four years college, where they can finally get their diploma and enter the “real world” of work. It is a day of celebration not only for graduates, but their loved ones as well, for they have finished another chapter of their lives while starting a new one.
However, it’s not all rosy for everyone, there are some, who upon leaving college, feel as if they are entering a void instead of a new world and ask themselves: “Then what?”
Instead of feeling hopeful because of their new opportunities, they feel uncertain about their futures. This anxiety and overwhelming feeling towards one’s future is called post-grad existential crisis. It may seem scary, but it is normal because the time between graduation and deciding on your future plans is a time of transition.
However, there is still hope, for you will be able to find your direction by follow these tips presented in these tales. After all, transitioning from one stage in life to the next is a universal experience.
Reflect on Your Goals
“The stress of finding yourself again after graduation sort of blurs the things that really matter to you. It took an especially memorable experience and the subsequent reflection that I experienced that I finally found the things that really mattered for me: my family and pursuing a teaching career.”
J.C.
This may sound unhelpful, but one of the most important things that you can do when you have a post-grad existential crisis is to pause, and take time to think about exactly do you want to do post-graduation. Of course, knowing what you want and getting there are two different things, but having a set goal is a crucial step in getting your rhythm back after college. By reflecting on what truly matters, you will discover what your intended direction is. It doesn’t need to be grand at the start, just a general direction on where you want to go next.
Find Someone to Lean On
“If you need to talk to anyone close to your life, friends and family then by all means. Don’t be afraid to ask”
A.
One of the worst things that can happen during a post-grad existential crisis is to have no one to listen to your problems. I was very lucky to lean on my friends and family who understood and helped during the immediate months after graduation and my initial lack of direction in life. Talking to them really helped me calm down and reassess why I am having a post-grad existential crisis in the first place.
Engage in Your Hobbies While Opening Yourself to New Opportunities
“So, ground yourself, by taking part of the old activities that you did as a student, while exploring the possibilities of what you can do and be as a graduate. Find your past and future at that time of uncertain transition between student to worker.”
M.
One thing that helped me find peace during my initial post-grad months was being able to catch up with my college friends after a while. It anchored me back to reality that although college is over, the friendships and memories were still there. Also, I also discovered new hobbies, like writing. As a result, this crisis, like all crises, seemed to pass. After all, just like what George Harrison said, “All things must pass away.”.